11 Reasons To Visit Cuba Now...

Cuba is a country which has to be seen to believed. With so much charm and history, every corner of the island has a story to tell. See here 11 reasons to get there now...

1. To see the amazing classic cars which are just everywhere!

Even if you are not a fan of cars you will love seeing the classic cars lined up at the traffic lights in Havana and winding their way around the country roads in Vinales. As vehicle import rules start to relax though, more foreign cars will soon dilute the roads and somewhat change the scenery.

2. To explore the luscious and green countryside

Away from the hustle and bustle of Cuba's cities, there is beautiful countryside perfect for cycling with flat roads and a backdrop of rolling hills. All you will need to worry about is where to stop for your next mojito!

3. To relax on gorgeous Caribbean beaches

It's no secret that the Caribbean has some of the best beaches in the world, but whilst most people flock to the resorts of Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, the beaches of Cuba are just as stunning and there are often some great deals to be had at some of the resorts around Varadero.

4. To stay with a Cuban family in one of the many Casa Paticulares

For a real authentic stay in Cuba, head to one of the hundreds of Casa Particulares. Not only is this a great budget accommodation option but you will also get to chat with the owners and learn far more about this fascinating country then you would if you were to stay in one of the more expensive government run hotels.

5. To check out some of the fantastic street art

In the big cities like Havana, you can't go far without stumbling upon some captivating street art. Whilst previously artists were required to gain a license before beginning any street art, now the rules are relaxed and as such the city has come to life with exciting and innovative displays.

6. To dine in the original Sloppy Joe's Bar

After an almost fifty year hiatus, Sloppy Joe's reopened in 2013 giving tourists the opportunity to relive the prohibition era and sip on the original Sloppy Joe cocktail, made from brandy, port and Cointreau. The walls are lined with old photographs bringing the bars history to life with famous faces such as Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner and Nat King Cole.

7. To step back in time and witness the quiet life on the streets of Trinidad

Beautiful Trinidad is perhaps one of the most photogenic places in the world! Gorgeous cobbled streets with colourful houses and a backdrop of lush green hills are the main characteristics of this sleepy little place. Despite its small size, there is plenty to do in and around Trinidad and it is worth spending a few days here to fully absorb its charm.

8. To stroll down Havana's famous Malecon and watch the locals fishing and the classic cars drive past

People of Havana flock to it's Malecon, an eight kilometer stretch of road along the sea front. It is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. If you are feeling energetic though, take a jog at sunset to see how the different parts of it represent different times in Havana's history.

9. To enjoy the live music that seems to be played in every bar at every hour

You can't go far in Havana without being lured in to a bar by the smooth sounds of live music. Whether it be a jazz quintet, a rumba band, or just one man and a guitar the city has a magnificent soundtrack.

10. To drink some rum...lots of it!

It goes without saying that you will have to drink some rum in Cuba! Mojito, Cuba Libre, Daiquiri or straight up like the locals, find your preference and simply enjoy!

11. And try it in some of Hemingways favourite spots

'My mojito in La Bodeguita. My daiquiri in El Floridita'. Yes these places are mostly full of tourists now but they are still worth a visit to get a feel for Hemingway's Havana.